BRITISH CONSERVATISM AND THE PRIMROSE LEAGUE ... - ideals

Woolen manufacturing was the primary industry in Huddersfield,
although the town also included a sizable engineering work force.
Liberal members were elected to parliament in all the General Elections
held from 1885 through 1900.
However, the margin of victory was not
always substantial, particularly in the 1886 and 1892 elections. A
local Conservative candidate, Sir J. Crosland, did manage to win a byelection
in 1893 by a narrow margin of thirty-five votes^O following
the sudden death of Liberal member Summers while traveling in India.
Although the support of Huddersfield Habitation was attributed with
having been an influential factor in achieving the victory, Crosland
was unable to retain his seat in the General
Election of 1895.31
Political
loyalties were nurtured through Habitation
entertainment functions which were frequently cosponsored by the
Conservative Association.
An annual winter lecture series was begun in
1888, supported by both organizations. Speakers not only addressed
borough residents, but also participated in a number of rural district
meetings.
Teas, balls, outings, picnics, and bazaars were often a
collaborative effort.
A number of rural Wards were closely aligned
with party associations.
Thus, the Milnsbridge and Longwood Wards
sponsored sewing meetings to provide funds for the promotion of
Conservative clubs in their areas.
Donations were,also made by the
South, East, and North Wards to Tory organizations in their regions.32
3° Craig, British Parliamentary Election Results, p. 122.
3! Huddersfield Habitation Minutes, 4 January 1893; 6 March
1893; 26 April 1893; 24 April 1896.
32
Ibid., 12 March 1888; 18 February 1888; 24 June 1889; 19
April 1890; 21 July 1890; 4 April 1891; 20 June 1892; 7 November 1892;
6 March 1893; 26 April 1893; 21 July 1894. Ibid., 19 April 1890; 4